Bukit Mertajam off-course centre opens

PENANG,  8 February 2006

Dato Ong (centre) cutting the ribbons at the opening ceremony.

Photo on right shows the main hall of the centre.

The first Off-Course Centre (OCC) of the Penang Turf Club (PNTC)  at Bukit Mertajam in mainland Penang was officially opened yesterday.

PNTC president Dato Ong Eng Khuan, who officiated the official opening, said the club has been given the green light by the authorities to open another such centre.

The OCC in Bukit Mertajam, located within the BM Sport Club, can accommodate up to 600 people, with ample car park and a cafeteria. It is the site the site of a former restaurant which has closed down.

The centre also has eight private rooms with karaoke facilities. "Many of our clients sing their hearts away while waiting for the races to begin," said Club Manager Kok Sin Sen.

The centre began operations during the Chinese New Year holidays and has been attracting huge crowds. "Many people living around the town are delighted that they need not have to travel to Penang island for the races," Kok said.